Shloka 73
गवां मध्ये तु पठतो गावो<स्य बहुवत्सला: । प्रस्थाने वा प्रवासे वा सर्वावस्थां गत: पठेत्
gavāṁ madhye tu paṭhato gāvo ’sya bahuvatsalāḥ | prasthāne vā pravāse vā sarvāvasthāṁ gataḥ paṭhet |
Bhishma said: For a person who recites (the sacred chant) while among cows, the cows become greatly affectionate toward him. Therefore, whether at the time of setting out, or while living away from home, in whatever condition one may be, one should continue this recitation. The teaching emphasizes steady spiritual practice and the gentle, protective reciprocity it evokes in living beings.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
Maintain regular sacred recitation (japa/paṭhana) in all circumstances—at home, at departure, or while traveling—because such steadiness cultivates auspiciousness and draws gentle goodwill, symbolized here by the cows’ increased affection.
In Bhishma’s instruction on dharma, he states a practical observance: reciting sacred mantra/chant in the presence of cows makes them especially affectionate toward the reciter, and he extends this into a broader rule of life—continue the practice regardless of one’s situation.